Are you planning to build a deck for your Tauranga home? If so, you may be considering using composite decking. Composite decking is a popular choice for many homeowners because it is durable and easy to maintain. In this article, we will answer the most popular questions asked about composite decking for your Tauranga home.

Do composite decks get mouldy?

Composite decks are made from a combination of wood and plastic, which makes them resistant to rot and mould. However, they can still become stained and discoloured over time, especially if they are not properly cleaned and maintained.

To keep your composite deck looking its best, sweep it regularly to remove dirt and debris. If it starts to look dull or stained, you can clean it with a mild soap and water solution. Be sure to rinse it thoroughly afterwards to prevent any soap residue from attracting dirt.

If you live in an area with high humidity or frequently experience heavy rains, you may need to clean your composite deck more often to prevent mould and mildew from taking hold. In these cases, using a mould and mildew-resistant cleaner can help keep your deck looking its best.

Can composite decking be placed over wood?

If you have an existing wood deck, you’ve probably noticed how difficult it is to keep it clean and looking good. Not only do you have to power wash or scrape the surface to remove dirt and grime, but you also have to deal with splinters, cracked boards, and warped planks. Wood decks simply don’t stand up well to the elements over time.

Composite decking, on the other hand, is designed to withstand the elements and keep your deck looking good for years to come. Composite decking is made from a mix of wood fibres and plastic, so it’s much more durable than traditional wood decking. Plus, composite decking is available in a variety of colours and styles, so you can create the perfect look for your home.

If you’re considering composite decking for your home, you may be wondering if you can just lay it over your existing wood deck. The answer is yes, you can, but there are a few things you need to do first.

First, you need to make sure your wood deck is in good condition. Any loose boards or warped planks should be repaired or replaced. Then, you need to clean the surface of your deck to remove any dirt, grime, or debris. Once your deck is clean and ready to go, you can start installing your composite decking.

Composite decking is easy to install, and you can do it yourself if you’re handy. Just start at the edge of your deck and work your way around, attaching the boards to the joists with screws or nails. If you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, you can always hire a professional to do it for you.

Once your composite decking is installed, you can sit back and enjoy your beautiful, new deck. No more power washing or sanding, and no more splinters!

Does decking attract rats?

If you’re wondering whether decking attracts rats, the answer is unfortunately yes. Rats are attracted to any areas that provide food, water, and shelter, and decking can provide all of these things. If you have a deck, it’s important to take steps to prevent rats from taking up residence.

Rats are attracted to decking because it provides them with everything they need. Decking is typically built close to the ground, making it easy for rats to access. It also provides shelter from the elements and potential predators. And, if there are any food or water sources nearby, rats will be even more attracted to the decking.

There are a few things you can do to deter rats from taking up residence on your deck. First, make sure there are no food or water sources near the deck. Secondly, trim any vegetation that is close to the deck so that rats can’t use it as a hiding spot. Finally, consider using a rat repellent around the deck.

If you do find that rats have taken up residence on your deck, it’s important to take action to get rid of them. Rats can cause significant damage to your property and spread disease, so it’s not something you want to ignore. There are a few different ways to get rid of rats, including trapping and poisoning. If you’re not sure how to get rid of rats, you should contact a pest control professional for help.

How many years does composite decking last?

Composite decking is a popular choice for homeowners because it requires little maintenance and lasts a long time. But how long does composite decking last?

Composite decking is made from a mix of wood fibres and plastic polymers. It’s a popular choice for homeowners because it requires little maintenance and lasts a long time. However, some factors can affect the lifespan of composite deckings, such as the quality of the materials and the installation.

On average, composite decking can last between 25 and 30 years. However, some higher-quality composite decking can last up to 50 years. The key to prolonging the life of your composite decking is to properly maintain it. Regular cleaning and sealing will help to protect the materials from the elements and keep your deck looking its best.

If you’re looking for a low-maintenance option for your deck, composite decking is a great choice. With proper care, it can last for decades.

Does composite decking get hot to walk on?

When temperatures start to rise, so does the temperature of your composite deck. While composite decking does not get as hot as other materials, like concrete, it can still get uncomfortably warm for bare feet. If you are looking to avoid the heat, there are a few things you can do to keep your deck cooler.

One way to keep your composite deck cooler is to choose a light-coloured board. The lighter the colour, the less heat it will absorb. You can also install awnings or canopies over your deck to provide shade and keep the temperature down. If you live in an area with a lot of sun, you may want to consider adding a fan to your deck to keep the air moving and cool things down.

Another way to keep your deck cooler is to use composite decking with a built-in cooling system. Some brands have a layer of cooling material between the boards that helps to dissipate heat. This can be a great option if you are looking for a deck that stays cooler in the summer months.

If you are looking for a composite deck that does not get as hot, there are a few things you can do to keep it cooler. Choose a light-coloured board and install awnings or canopies to provide shade. You can also look for composite decking with a built-in cooling system.

Why is my composite deck warping?

While composite decking is designed to resist warping, it can still happen – especially if the boards are not properly supported or installed. Warping is usually caused by one of three things: heat, moisture, or improper installation.

If you live in an area with extreme temperatures, your composite deck may be more susceptible to warping. The heat can cause the boards to expand and contract, leading to warping. If you live in an area with high humidity, the moisture can cause the boards to swell and warp. And finally, if the boards are not properly installed, they can warp due to the weight of the deck and the elements.

There are a few things you can do to prevent your composite deck from warping. First, make sure the boards are properly supported. They should be laid on a flat, level surface and properly spaced to allow for expansion and contraction. 

Second, if you live in an area with extreme temperatures or high humidity, take measures to protect your deck from the elements. Third, make sure the boards are installed correctly. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use the proper fasteners.

If your composite deck does warp, you can usually fix it. Straighten warped boards by heating them with a heat gun or hair dryer. Then, use a decking board straightener to push the boards back into place. If the warping is severe, you may need to replace the affected boards.

Can you put composite decking on the ground?

If you are looking for an alternative to a traditional wooden deck, composite decking might be the answer. This type of decking is made from recycled plastic and wood fibres, making it a more environmentally friendly option. It is also easier to maintain than a wooden deck, as it is resistant to rot, mould, and insects.

Composite decking can be installed on the ground, as long as it is level and the soil is well-drained. If you live in an area with a lot of rainfall or snowfall, it is important to make sure that the ground is sloped so that water does not pool on your deck. It is also important to choose a composite decking that is rated for ground contact.

If you are planning on installing composite decking on the ground, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. In most cases, you will need to lay down a layer of gravel before installing the decking. This will help with drainage and keep the decking level. Once the gravel is in place, you can install the composite decking boards. Make sure to leave enough space between the boards so that water can drain through.

Composite decking is a great alternative to a traditional wooden deck. It is more durable and easier to maintain, and it can be installed on the ground. Just make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure a successful installation.

Can you power wash composite decking?

If you have a composite deck, you know that it is an investment that you want to take care of. That is why you may be wondering if you can power wash your composite deck. The answer is yes, but there are a few things that you need to know before you do.

First, you need to make sure that you are using the right kind of power washer. You don’t want to use a pressure washer that is too powerful because it can damage the composite material. Second, you need to use a mild detergent or soap when you are power washing your deck. This will help to remove any dirt or grime that has built up on the surface.

Finally, you need to be careful about where you aim the power washer. You don’t want to spray directly onto the decking because this can cause the material to warp. Instead, aim the power washer at the edges of the decking or at the bottom of the stairs. This will help to avoid any damage to the composite decking.

Can composite decking rot?

Composite decking is made from a mix of wood fibres and plastic polymers. It is a popular choice for decks because it is low maintenance and resistant to rot. However, composite decking is not immune to rot. If it is not properly maintained, composite decking can develop mould and mildew growth, which can lead to rot. To prevent rot, composite decking needs to be cleaned regularly with soap and water. 

If mould and mildew are already present, they can be removed with a solution of bleach and water. To prevent composite decking from rotting, it is also important to make sure that it is not exposed to standing water. If your deck is located in an area that is prone to flooding, you may want to consider installing a drain system to protect your deck.

Is composite decking low maintenance?

Composite decking is an increasingly popular choice for homeowners for a number of reasons. It is durable, low maintenance, and does not require treatment with chemicals or other harsh products. In addition, composite decking is available in a wide range of colours and styles to suit any taste.

While composite decking is often touted as being low maintenance, there are still some basic care and cleaning tasks that should be performed on a regular basis. These include sweeping the deck to remove debris and occasionally washing it with a mild soap and water solution. In addition, it is important to inspect the deck regularly for any signs of damage or wear and to repair or replace any damaged boards.

With proper care and maintenance, a composite deck can provide years of enjoyment for you and your family.

Is composite decking cheaper than paving?

Composite decking is an alternative to paving that offers many benefits. It is cheaper than paving, durable, easy to maintain, and environmentally friendly.

Composite decking is made from recycled materials and is very low maintenance. It does not require sealing, staining or painting, and is resistant to mould, mildew and insects. Composite decking is also easy to install and can be used to create a variety of different looks for your outdoor space.

Paving is a more expensive option than composite decking and requires more maintenance. Paving can be susceptible to cracking and staining, and needs to be sealed and regularly cleaned.

Composite decking is the cheaper, more durable and low-maintenance option for your outdoor space.